Government Agreement stream

The Government Agreement stream of the Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403) allows people to come to Australia to work under the terms of a bilateral agreement between the Australian Government and the government of another country, or an arrangement formally endorsed by the Australian Government. Rather than being sponsored by an employer, applicants are supported by the Australian government agency that is a signatory to the agreement.

🤝 Who is this visa for?

This stream is designed for people whose work in Australia is provided for under a government-to-government agreement — for example, staff coming to Australia under bilateral exchange, cooperation or development arrangements. The type of work you can do, and how long you can stay, is determined by the terms of the specific agreement you are covered by.

✅ Eligibility requirements

• Be covered by a formal agreement between the Australian Government and a foreign government (or an arrangement endorsed by the Australian Government)
• Hold a letter of support from the Australian government agency that is a signatory to the agreement
• Intend to perform only the work specified in your visa application and permitted under the agreement
• Genuinely intend to stay in Australia temporarily
• Have adequate health insurance for your stay, and meet health and character requirements

📅 How long can you stay?

The Government Agreement stream generally allows a stay of up to 2 years, although a shorter period may apply if the relevant agreement or the foreign government requests it. Your stay period is ultimately set by the terms of the agreement under which you are coming to Australia.

👥 Can family members be included?

Members of your family unit can be included in your application if the relevant agreement permits it and they are specified in the letter of support. Each family member must meet health and character requirements and hold adequate health insurance.

💼 Work conditions

Visa holders can only undertake the work or activity specified in their visa application and provided for under the government agreement. Conditions attached to the visa may include work limitations and reporting obligations, depending on the arrangement.

💲 Visa application charge

The visa application charge for the Government Agreement stream is AUD $470 for the main applicant, with an additional charge for each family member aged 18 or over (fees are indexed on 1 July each year — check the current charge before applying).

🔀 Other subclass 403 streams

The subclass 403 visa also includes the Foreign Government Agency stream, the Domestic Worker (Diplomatic or Consular) stream, the Privileges and Immunities stream and the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) stream. Learn more on our subclass 403 visa page, or see our Agriculture visa (403) and Pacific Engagement Visa (subclass 192) pages for related pathways.

❓ Frequently asked questions

Do I need an employer sponsor for this visa?
No. Unlike most temporary work visas, the Government Agreement stream does not require an approved business sponsor. Instead, you need a letter of support from the Australian government agency that is a signatory to the relevant bilateral agreement.

How do I know if I’m covered by a government agreement?
The organisation or government arranging your placement in Australia will normally confirm this and arrange the letter of support. If you are unsure whether your arrangement qualifies, speak to a registered migration agent.

Can I extend my stay?
Your stay is tied to the terms of the agreement. In some cases a further visa application may be possible — for example, if the agreement provides for a longer engagement.

Can I do other work while in Australia?
No. You can only perform the work specified in your visa application and permitted under the agreement.

Can I apply from inside Australia?
Applications can generally be made in or outside Australia, but your circumstances and the agreement’s terms will determine the best approach — get advice before applying.

📞 Speak to a Registered Migration Agent

If you believe you may be eligible under a government agreement, or you are a government body coordinating placements in Australia, our team can guide you through the process. Book a consultation with VisaEnvoy today.